2001 Audi A8 vs. 1990 BMW 520
To start off, 2001 Audi A8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,770 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Audi A8 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1990 BMW 520. (145 HP @ 5900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 BMW 520 weights approximately 32 kg more than 2001 Audi A8.
Because 1990 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1990 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Audi A8, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2001 Audi A8 (280 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW 520. (186 Nm @ 4700 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW 520. 2001 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1990 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1990 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A8 | 1990 BMW 520 | |
| Make | Audi | BMW |
| Model | A8 | 520 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2770 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1510 kg | 1542 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3020 mm | 2770 mm |
